Electron Configuration: Determine from Periodic Table

[rosem]

Homework Statement

Electron configuration 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^1

Homework Equations

How do i determine this from a periodic table

The Attempt at a Solution

i know the one in front of the S is the number of orbitals and the S signifies the group in the periodic table

 

[dontdisturbmycircles]

Well, we know that neutral atoms have the same number of protons and electrons.

The 1s^2 means there are two elections in the 1s shell which is in the first energy level. Similiarly the 2p^6 means there are 6 electrons in the 2p shell which is in the 2nd energy level. Just count the electrons.

To make sure you understand the concept of orbitals, I suggest you work some problems like this backwards. Such as trying to see if you can find the electronic structure of Sodium without any help, pick an element! I don't know if you have learned about D orbitals, if not stay above the 4th row.